The audio clip is a conversation between a host and Democratic strategist Nicole Brener Schmidt. The topic of discussion is the appointment of Lefon Butler as a replacement for the late Senator Diane Feinstein, who served as a Democratic Senator from California.
Butler, who is the president of EMILY's List, is the first Black lesbian in the Senate and has been a champion for her whole life. She has worked as a union organizer, fought for women's reproductive freedom, and has been an adviser to Governor Nome. However, her appointment has raised questions due to her being a registered voter in Maryland, even though she has spent most of her time in California.
The host and Schmidt discuss the implications of Butler's potential run for the Senate. They mention that it would be a formidable campaign, considering the high costs of running for Senate in California and the strong competition. However, Schmidt points out that Butler's appointment as a Senator does not necessarily mean she will run for the seat.
The conversation also touches on the legacy of Senator Diane Feinstein. She is remembered for breaking barriers for women, passing the assault rifle ban in 1994, and mentoring many women and men in the Senate. Her legacy is considered significant, and her decision to stay in the Senate was seen as crucial for her to vote on nominees.
The host and Schmidt conclude the discussion by acknowledging the complexity of the situation and expressing their anticipation for future developments.
1. The California governor is moving quickly to name a replacement for the late Senator Diane Feinstein.
2. The replacement is Lefon Butler, president of EMILY's List.
3. Butler will fill the rest of Feinstein's term.
4. Lefon Butler is a Democratic strategist who has worked with EMILY's List in the past.
5. Butler is the first black lesbian in the Senate.
6. She has been a champion for reproductive freedom for women in America.
7. Butler is committed to fulfilling the legacy of Senator Feinstein.
8. She has also worked on many other progressive causes.
9. Butler was an adviser to Governor Nome.
10. Butler is registered as a voter in Maryland despite spending most of her time in California.
11. Governor Newsome had previously stated that he wanted to appoint an African-American woman to the seat.
12. Governor Newsome has relaxed the precondition that the appointed person should not run for the seat.
13. There is a contentious battle for the US Senate seat.
14. It is complicated for Butler as she could be a formidable candidate but would need to mount a campaign by the primary on March 5th.
15. Senator Feinstein has a long legacy on the Judiciary Committee.
16. Feinstein has been mentored by Governor Newsome.
17. Feinstein stood up for LGBTQ rights early on.
18. Feinstein was respected by people on both sides of the aisle.
19. Feinstein treated the Senate with dignity.
20. Feinstein was elected and has a remarkable legacy.
21. Feinstein chose to stay in the Senate to vote on nominees.
22. The conversation about age in politics continues.
23. Senator Feinstein was elected and has an amazing legacy to continue.